Scientific Reference
Cerebrolysin
Evidence profile: Preclinical, with limited uncontrolled human reports
Cerebrolysin is a standardized neuropeptide preparation derived from purified porcine brain proteins, containing a mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides and amino acids with neurotrophic and neuroprotective activity. It is widely studied for neurological recovery, including stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and cognitive decline. The formulation is designed to mimic endogenous neurotrophic factors, supporting neuronal survival, plasticity, and repair. It has been used clinically in multiple countries, with a substantial body of research evaluating its efficacy in neurodegenerative and acute neurological conditions, though outcomes across studies remain mixed.
Mechanism of Action
Cerebrolysin delivers bioactive neuropeptides and amino acids that mimic endogenous neurotrophic factors, supporting neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and repair. It enhances neurogenesis, reduces apoptosis, and modulates inflammatory pathways in the central nervous system. Administration via IV or IM routes enables efficient delivery to the brain, supporting functional recovery and cognitive processes.
Molecular Information
- Type: Porcine-derived neuropeptide mixture
Published Research
Cerebrolysin after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: prospective meta-analysis of the CAPTAIN trial series
Vester JC et al. · Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology · 2021 · Review
PMID 33620612 — View on PubMedCerebrolysin for acute ischaemic stroke
Ziganshina LE et al. · The Cochrane database of systematic reviews · 2020 · Review
PMID 32662068 — View on PubMedCerebrolysin for vascular dementia
Cui S et al. · The Cochrane database of systematic reviews · 2019 · Review
PMID 31710397 — View on PubMedCerebrolysin for acute ischaemic stroke
Ziganshina LE et al. · The Cochrane database of systematic reviews · 2017 · Review
PMID 28430363 — View on PubMedCerebrolysin for functional recovery in patients with acute ischemic stroke: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Wang Z et al. · Drug design, development and therapy · 2017 · Review
PMID 28458521 — View on PubMedCerebrolysin in mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials
Gauthier S et al. · Dementia and geriatric cognitive disorders · 2015 · Review
PMID 25832905 — View on PubMed